Hello Hivers....
This post is my entry for the Wildlife Photography Contest hosted by @photofeed. If you would like to enter, please read the rules
The bird in the photo I'm sharing is a Mantenan Bird (also known as the Scarlet Minivet, with the scientific name Pericrocotus speciosus). This bird is known for its striking and beautiful plumage, especially the males, which have a contrasting combination of bright red and bluish-black. Mantenan Birds are often found in the tropical forests and highlands of South and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, particularly Aceh. Their beautiful colors make them easily recognizable and are often sought after by nature photographers.
The male Mantenan Bird, as seen in the photo, has a bluish-black upperbody, while its underside and wings are a bright red-orange. This coloration serves to attract females and warn predators that this bird is agile and elusive. Females have a more subdued coloration, usually yellow with gray, and are less bright than males. This striking difference is known as sexual dimorphism.
The Mantenan Bird's natural habitat is dense tropical forests, especially in hilly and mountainous areas. They typically live in pairs or small groups, actively moving in the tree canopy, foraging for small insects. These birds are highly agile and often move rapidly between branches, making them quite difficult to observe when not perched.
Ecologically, Mantenan Birds play an important role in controlling insect populations in their habitat. Furthermore, their presence is also an indicator of the health of the forest ecosystem. Due to their stable population and widespread distribution, these birds are not yet classified as endangered, but their natural habitat needs to be protected from the threat of deforestation. Their beauty serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity of Indonesia's tropical forests.
Important Note: I wrote in Indonesian, then translated it using Google Translate.
Regards @yayan